Description

This recipe is a delightful invitation to a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and comforting textures. Combining the smoothness of potatoes with the bold taste of smoked sausage and the creaminess of a bechamel sauce, this dish promises to impress everyone at the table. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this gratin of potatoes with smoked sausage is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The finishing touch of melted mozzarella cheese adds an irresistible crunch, making this dish even more delightful. Let's embark on this delicious culinary adventure!

Ingredients

• 500 grams of potatoes
• 1.5 liters of water
• 1 tablespoon of salt (for cooking the potatoes)
• 2 smoked sausages, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 onion, thinly sliced into half-moons
• A drizzle of olive oil (for sautéing)
• 4 tablespoons of butter (for the béchamel sauce)
• 40 grams of all-purpose flour
• 600 ml of milk
• Salt to taste (for the béchamel sauce)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 200 grams of heavy cream
• 200 grams of grated mozzarella cheese
• Optional: Ground nutmeg to taste (for the béchamel sauce)
• Optional: Seasoned breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Step by Step Instructions

• Step 1

  

  Begin by preparing 500 grams of potatoes, slicing them into even rounds. This step is crucial to ensure an even cooking process and a balanced final result.
  

• Step 2

  

  Next, place the sliced potatoes into a large pot, along with one and a half liters of hot water. The water should be enough to completely cover the potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly.
  

• Step 3

  

  Add one tablespoon of salt to the water, which will help season the potatoes as they cook, enhancing their flavor.

• Step 4

  

  While the potatoes are cooking, take this time to prepare the other ingredients. Slice two smoked sausages into thin rounds. The sausage will bring a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.
  

• Step 5

  

  Then, slice one onion into thin half-moon slices. The onion will add a natural sweetness to the dish, perfectly complementing the flavor of the sausage.
  

• Step 6

  

  In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. The olive oil will help to brown the ingredients, bringing out their flavors.
  

• Step 7

  

  Add the onions to the skillet and sauté until they become soft and slightly golden. This process caramelizes the onions, intensifying their sweet flavor.
  

• Step 8

  

  Next, add the sausage slices to the skillet and allow them to brown. The fat from the sausage will be released, adding even more flavor to the dish.
  

• Step 9

  

  In a separate saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. The butter will start the preparation of our bechamel sauce, which will be the creamy heart of this recipe.
  

• Step 10

  

  Once the butter has melted, add 40 grams of flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This is the moment when the sauce begins to take shape.
  

• Step 11

  

  Gradually add 600 ml of milk to the butter and flour mixture, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
  

• Step 12

  

  Season the sauce with salt to taste, keeping in mind that both the cheese and the sausage contain salt, so be mindful of the quantity.
  

• Step 13

  

  Add freshly ground black pepper, which will add a slight spicy and aromatic touch to the sauce.
  

• Step 14

  

  Finally, add 200 grams of heavy cream to the sauce, stirring well to incorporate, and then set it aside. The cream will give the sauce a velvety and rich texture.
  

• Step 15

  

  In a baking dish, start by layering the cooked potatoes at the bottom. Then, evenly spread the sausage and sautéed onions over the potatoes.
  

• Step 16

  

  Pour the bechamel sauce over the potato, sausage, and onion mixture, making sure to cover all the ingredients thoroughly.
  

• Step 17

  

  To finish, sprinkle 200 grams of shredded mozzarella cheese on top and bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for approximately 50 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
  

• Step 18

  

  And there you have it! Your gratin of potatoes with smoked sausage is ready to be served. This dish, with its combination of textures and flavors, is perfect for any occasion.
  

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the bechamel sauce while preparing it. Nutmeg enhances the flavor of the ingredients and adds an irresistible aroma to the dish. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of crunch, sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

This recipe is the perfect choice for those seeking a tasty and comforting meal. The potato gratin with smoked sausage is easy to prepare and combines simple ingredients that together create an irresistible dish. Serve with a fresh salad and a good wine, and you'll have a complete meal that will surely delight everyone. Enjoy your meal!